Will be driving from San Diego to Tijuana in two weeks. (Don't worry, we have the insurance). Any idea how long it might take to get there from the San Diego airport, factoring in time crossing the border?

Anything to know about crossing the border? Will have passports. Anything else needed? Does it take longer to get back into the US on the way back? Thanks!

If you are just going to TJ park your car on the U.S. side. If you are going elsewhere, as I understand it you don't need anything other than insurance for your car if you stay in Baja. Check with someplace like Sanborn's to make sure. For instance if it turns out you do need a vehicle permit you will need title or a letter from the lien holder giving you permission to enter Mexico. I don't think this applies in Baja, but as above check with Snaborn's or another reputable insurance place. If the traffic is light and Mexican immigration is passing people through you can probably get from the airport into Mexico in 1-2 hours, maybe less. leaving is another story. Depedning on time of day, traffic, etc. waits at the San Ysidro crossing can be several hours to get back into the U.S. I just checked a website which said the wait was about 40 cars which would not be too long. You might consider crossing at Otay Mesa instead of San Ysidro as it generally has less traffic. Once again again, if you are only going to TJ consider leaving your car in secured parking inthe U.S. Othewise- have fun.

We're headed to a golf resort just outside TJ, so we need the car and all our stuff. We'll be prepared for the long wait coming back and may try the other route you suggested. Thanks, Dude!!

The drive itself from the airport to the border is probably under 30 minutes, but aside from Dude's comments, I'd add that if you're planning to rent a car at the San Diego Airport, you should be aware that most U.S. rental car companies do not permit their vehicles to cross the border. You might want to check that out ahead of time if that's what you had in mind...

Have fun!
Mark
www.tiogringo.com

We've already checked that out. Thanks, tho.